Merbau Decking – Pros and Cons

Merbau decking is a popular choice for Gold Coast homes. Its durability and affordability make it a great option for your outdoor living space. However, it also has some negatives.

Merbau is sourced from rainforests, which can cause deforestation and environmental damage. It also has a high tannin content, which can stain materials (such as paving and walls) near the deck.

It’s durable

Merbau timber is an affordable and durable option for your decking. It comes from the kwila or Pacific kwila tree and thrives in tropical regions. It is an attractive wood that can be stained or oiled to match your style and taste. It has a high density rating and can withstand the humid and dry conditions in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It is also only slightly combustible and therefore suitable for bushfire-prone areas.

While merbau is a great choice for your deck, it has some downsides. It has a high tannin content and will bleed when wet. This can stain materials near your deck, such as paving and walls. It can also be messy and oily to work with.

To avoid these problems, consider using composite decking timber like Modwood. This alternative to traditional timber is a smart and stylish option that can withstand the harsh Australian sun and requires minimal maintenance. It is also environmentally friendly and does not harm the rainforests.

It’s beautiful

Merbau timber is a rich reddish brown colour with flecks of gold, and the wavy grain creates beautiful texture for your deck. It’s ideal for a wide range of purposes including flooring, cladding and outdoor furniture and is immune to weathering, termites and mould.

Because it is a tropical timber and grows predominantly in rainforest areas, merbau has high tannic acid and oil content which makes it hard, strong and durable. It also has a good BAL 29 rating for bushfire resistance, which is important if you live in a bushfire prone area.

Despite the positives, merbau does fall short in some areas. Due to its natural tannin content, merbau can bleed dark brown/red during wet periods and may stain materials such as paving and concrete around your deck. This can be minimised by washing your merbau deck regularly and staining with water-based deck oils every 3-6 months. Additionally, merbau comes from rainforests and causes deforestation which may be a concern for some homeowners.

It’s affordable

When it comes to decking Gold Coast, it’s important to choose a material that is both stylish and long-lasting. The experts at Decking Gold Coast can help you pick a material that suits your aesthetic and fits within your budget. They also offer comprehensive design services to help you transform your outdoor space into a beautiful retreat.

While pine and other softwoods are still popular, tropical hardwoods are growing in popularity due to their durability and graceful aging. These options include Merbau, Spotted Gum, Jarrah and Ironbark. These timbers are also fire resistant and can be used in bushfire-prone areas.

However, it’s important to consider where your merbau wood is coming from before making your purchase. Many merbau trees are harvested from Asia and other continents, which can lead to deforestation. This is why it’s a good idea to consider alternative materials that do not damage rainforests. You may also want to consider composite decking, which is made of recycled materials and is more environmentally friendly.

It’s easy to maintain

Merbau timber has a high durability rating, and it is relatively easy to work with using standard carpentry tools. It is also very resilient, able to withstand any weather conditions without shrinking or warping. However, if you’re planning to use it in areas that may get wet or damp, be aware of its tendency to tannin bleed. Tannin is an oily substance that causes the wood’s colours to bleed during periods of rain or heavy dew. This means that any materials, such as paving, walls and concrete, near your deck may be stained.

Known by several names, including Pacific Kwila and Ipil, this hardwood can be used for flooring, fencing, screening, cladding, decking, staircases, marine construction, furniture, musical instruments and tool handles. It has the highest resistance rating to termites and is bushfire-resistant, making it ideal for use in fire-prone areas. It is also less likely to rot than some other types of hardwood timber.

from Decking Gold Coast Experts https://ift.tt/71W86Pv
via IFTTT